Frequently Asked Questions - RIC

The Challenge

What is Raleigh Round Island Challenge?Round Island Challenge is a challenge event hosted by Raleigh International Kuala Lumpur to raise funds and help support Malaysian youths to embark on international expeditions to Costa Rica & Nicaragua, Nepal, and Tanzania. For more information about our expeditions, please click here.

Raleigh Round Island Challenge comprises of a team of four ( 2 swimmers & 2 kayakers) bracing the open seas of Pulau Perhentian, swimming and kayaking for 18km at the same time.

When are the dates?Raleigh Round Island Challenge usually takes place in the month of May hence, please do look out for updates from our website and facebook page if you wish to know more.

Are there prizes if I win?No prizes to be won in this challenge as it is a non-competitive event. Round Island Challenge is merely an open water swimathon for our Sea Challengers seeking a dose of adrenaline while braving the raging waves of the South China Sea all while contributing back to society.

I am not fit/I cannot swim well/ I swim well but I have zero experience in open water swimming. But I still want to take part in your challenge! Will I be able to join? We strongly advise that you have prior experience in open water swimming due to the nature of our challenge. A good guideline: If you can swim continuously for 2KM, then you could take up this challenge!

How far do we have to swim/kayak?Total distance will be 18KM (a loop around Pulau Perhentian Besar).You may however choose to cover a shorter distance and end your challenge at the designated checkpoints. Kindly inform our event marshalls if you decide to stop.

What is the cut-off time?Cut-off time is 11 hours (7AM – 6PM) , subjected to weather and tide conditions. Cut-off times will also be imposed at each checkpoint and participants will be informed of the details closer to the event date.

What about the format of the challenge?A team comprises of 4 members - 2 kayakers and 2 swimmers at any one time.

I am short on members! What do I do? We can recommend & match other sea challengers who are lacking in members but we will not be held responsible for it. Members are advised to train together to understand each other and achieve effective team dynamics.

How many checkpoints will there be?There will be 5 checkpoints. Water and light snacks will be provided at the checkpoints. There will be no bag deposits at any checkpoints, teams are advised to bring their own supplies with them on board their kayaks. A map of the checkpoints will be provided closer to date.

Where will the flag off and finishing point be?We will be flagging off and finishing at Watercolours Resort, Teluk Dalam.

Wait, hold up, my fees do not cover accommodation and transportation fees. Where should I stay and how should I get there?We highly recommend you book rooms at Flora Bay or Carver Cove as they are special RIC accommodation, thus you will receive special discounted rates if you stay in the aforementioned resorts. Click on their websites for their room rates.

However, please do register and book your stay as soon as possible as these resorts may be fully booked as the dates gets closer because it is during the school holiday season.

Alternatively, you can find rooms in any of these resorts along the stretch of Teluk Dalam, Pulau Perhentian Besar.

Fauna Beach Chalet

B’First Chalet

Bayu Dive Lodge

Samudra Beach Chalet

Arwana Resort Reservation

We do not recommend you find accommodation outside Teluk Dalam as you would have to find your own transport to and fro Watercolours resort where the flag-off point and closing ceremony will take place.

Is my registration fee refundable?No, registration fees are not refundable.

Something came up and I am unable to attend, can someone else take my place?Yes. However, you are required to inform us of this changes via email at ric@raleighinternational.org.my no later than 2 weeks prior to event.

Alternatively, if you do not wish to participate as a Sea Challenger, you can volunteer as well!

Volunteers

Being a volunteer sounds interesting, what is the typical roles of a volunteer?Volunteers are expected to pick up roles in logistics, water stations (checkpoints) and give moral support to the participants!

Okay, sign me up! How much would I have to pay and what does the fee include?Volunteer fees are RM399, fees includes event t-shirt, participation certificate, food on event day, accommodation, transportation from KL- Perhentian- KL, equipment rental, marine park fees and insurance

Any age limit for volunteers?Volunteers must be 16 years old and above.